After seeing a specialist about his ankle and knee injuries, De Bruyne last night tweeted: "Just got back from the specialist. I'll be out for around 10 weeks.

"I'll work hard on my recovery and hope to be back on the pitch ASAP. Thank you all for the supportive messages!"

The news is a huge setback for Manuel Pellegrini's hopes of success as they chase down an unprecedented quadruple.

(Image: Action Images via Reuters)

(Image: Getty)

(Image: Getty)

De Bruyne has been a revelation in his debut season with City, plundering 12 goals and 12 assists to help spreahead City's trophy assult on four fronts.

The 24-year-old is not expected back until mid-April at the earliest, meaning he could miss up to 15 games in all competitions including City's Champions League clash with Dynamo Kiev and a potential quarter-final tie.

He will also miss up to 10 Premier League games, including those against title rivals Leicester and Tottenham, as well as clashes with Liverpool and Manchester United.

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